Oswego State is set to have its second game this week in the Marano Campus Center against SUNY Cortland.  The Lakers are coming off of a 6-2 win over Buffalo State, improving their overall record to 3-2 and 1-2 in NEWHL play.

Last season, the Lakers were 1-2-1 against the Red Dragons. In their last matchup against SUNY Cortland, Oswego State fell victim to a 2-0 shutout. With SUNY Cortland coming off of a 3-2 loss to Morrisville State, it will look to bounce back against the Lakers.

Keys to the Game

Oswego State

The Lakers penalty kill will be the key to beating SUNY Cortland this afternoon. SUNY Cortland has only scored one power play goal this year on 16 opportunities. The Lakers penalty kill has definitely proven to be a strength, and with the team having trouble staying out of the penalty box, the Red Dragons could get plenty of opportunities on the power play.

SUNY Cortland

Staying out of the penalty box will be the key for SUNY Cortland to come out of their trip to Oswego with a win. Against Buffalo State, the Lakers scored on the power play, which has improved game after game. The Red Dragons need to play a disciplined game this afternoon and not risk the Lakers connecting on the power play.

By the Numbers

Record (Conference)

OSW: 3-2 (1-2)

COR: 4-1 (4-1)

Goals (Per Game)

OSW: 15 (3.0)

COR: 18 (3.60)

Shots (Per Game)

OSW: 166 (33.2)
COR: 165 (33)

Power Play (Percentage)

OSW: 5-27 (.185)
COR: 1-16 (.062)

Players to Watch

OSW: Amber Thomas

Thomas is coming off of a game for the Lakers where she scored two goals in the second period. With the power play showing improvement, Thomas has generated a lot of chances on the power play. Thomas should get plenty of offensive opportunities and help get her teammates involved by moving the puck as well.

COR: Grace Schnorr

The Red Dragons leading scorer had a quiet night against Morrisville State. Despite starting the season on a three game point sterak with four goals and two assists, she was blanked in SUNY Cortland’s lone loss this season. With SUNY Cortland looking to bounce back, expect to see Schnorr heavily involved in the offense, whether it is with the power play or at even strength.

Final Thoughts

This is going to be a very important game for the Lakers this afternoon. Although it is early in the season, it is important to climb the standings and avoid falling too far behind too early. This looks to be a close game with two strong defenses going against each other. 

Photo by Casey Stone | The Oswegonian